With League of Legends constantly evolving, champions typically break into the competitive scene following major updates or balance tweaks. However, one jungler has defied expectations. After nearly a decade of being overlooked, she has become a dominant force in professional play.
The Turning Point: Patch 12.10
A discussion on Reddit recently highlighted Vi’s unexpected emergence in the meta. Many players were surprised to learn that, despite being released in 2012, she remained largely irrelevant in competitive play for years. Unlike other champions who rose to prominence through reworks or buffs, Vi spent a decade as a niche pick before finally gaining recognition.
The Piltover Enforcer was rarely seen in professional matches, with her presence hovering below one percent for years. According to Games of Legends, Vi was never a priority for pro teams, and she struggled to find her place in the meta. This changed dramatically in season 12 when Riot Games introduced patch 12.10, a major durability update that made tanks and divers stronger while weakening assassins. Vi, with her mix of sustained damage, durability, and crowd control, suddenly became a valuable asset in competitive play.
Vi, League of Legends (image via Getty)Vi’s Breakout at Worlds 2022
During patch 12.16, which was featured at Worlds 2022, Vi’s presence skyrocketed to 72 percent. The meta at the time revolved around champions like Ahri and Zeri, both of whom relied on high mobility and aggressive play. Vi’s ability to lock down elusive carries made her a prime choice for professional teams. Players from the LPL, including Yan “Wei” Yang-Wei and Zhao “Jiejie” Li-Jie, played her extensively, further solidifying her place in the meta.
Maintaining Relevance Through Versatility
Since then, Vi has maintained her relevance in professional play, particularly in the Chinese and Korean leagues. While she has received several nerfs aimed at reducing her dominance, she has continued to be a reliable pick. Her flexible kit allows her to adapt to different playstyles, whether through tanky builds or damage-heavy itemization. This versatility has ensured that she remains a viable choice in a variety of team compositions.
The Arcane Effect
Another factor contributing to Vi’s rise is the popularity of Arcane, the hit Netflix series that prominently features her alongside Jinx. Released in 2021, the show introduced Vi to a wider audience and increased her general pick rate. While Jinx was already a well-established pick in both casual and professional play, Vi saw a surge in popularity among junglers during this period.
Vi’s Future in the Metaverse
As season 15 unfolds, Vi continues to be a staple in professional matches, maintaining a presence in over 50 percent of games across tier-one leagues. With the implementation of Fearless Drafts, where champion diversity is encouraged, her play rate is expected to remain high. The broader pool of viable champions only strengthens her standing in the meta, ensuring she will continue to see frequent use in high-level competition.
Vi, League of Legends (image via Getty)What’s Next for League’s Hidden Gems?
Vi’s unexpected rise has sparked curiosity among players about other champions that have yet to make an impact in professional play. Her story suggests that hidden gems could still be waiting for the right meta shift to bring them into the spotlight. As the game continues to evolve, it’s only a matter of time before another overlooked champion follows in her footsteps and reshapes the competitive terrain.
